The 24th edition of the Nedbank Namibian Newspaper Cup was launched yesterday in Windhoek, with the popular national tournament scheduled to take place from 3 – 5 April in Keetmanshoop, and all 14 regions are expected to participate in both football and netball matches.
The tournament has been held since its inception in 2001, having missed only one year due to Covid-19 and has grown into one of the most anticipated sporting events in the country. The Cup is also widely recognised for promoting sports development and youth empowerment.
Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Sport Dino Ballotti praised the annual tournament, saying events such as the Newspaper Cup encourage healthy lifestyles among youth, contribute to economic activity, promote community participation, and create opportunities.
Ballotti further thanked the leadership of Keetmanshoop for welcoming the national event and for playing their part in nurturing the next generation of footballers and netball players.
President of Netball Namibia, Juanita Witbeen, said she is excited about this year’s edition, noting that champions are often discovered through such tournaments.
“Kavango East are the netball champions for the 2025 season, having come through the structures of the regional league, and they are now going to play in the national league. I am excited to see what they will bring to the 2026 season and what other regions can learn from their development efforts. The platform to develop players for our national set-up is right here, and we have a first-hand opportunity to do so,” Witbeen said.
Governor of the //Kharas region, Dawid Gertze, said the Cup aligns well with the current administration’s vision for youth and sport, describing it as one of the fundamental pillars on which the future will be built.
“We understand that sports development is not just about games, but about keeping our youth active, disciplined and away from harmful paths. It is about building character and uniting our nation,” said Gertze.